And there are plenty of local artists in the mix as always: Phoenix Afrobeat Orchestra, the Uncommon Good, Wyves, the Lonesome Wilderness, Treasurefruit, Jane N' the Jungle, Jerusafunk, Scattered Melodies, Spark Jack Daddy, Romen Buffalo and the Loyal Order, and Daisy.

The McDowell Mountain Music Festival – or M3F as it’s taken to branding itself -- was established in 2004, making this its 15th anniversary as a destination festival, expanded to include a third stage for the first time ever.

“What really sets us apart from other music festivals, is our choice of artists year after year,” says President John Largay. “Fifteen years has been a great experience for me and the people of Wespac – to be able to participate in community and culture at this level and watch it affect the resurgence of Downtown Phoenix, to the promotion of music, family spirit and charity – it has been an honor.”

The festival’s goal, Largay says, is “to continue to elevate Phoenix as a music and cultural destination as well as to generate revenue for our local economy, including local artists and small businesses, which are the oxygen that feeds the heart of the city.”

Charity has always been a big part of the M3F aesthetic. Since its inception, the festival has donated more than $1 million to local family-based charities. Last year, it teamed with Phoenix Children’s Hospital Foundation and UMOM New Day Center, donating $75,000 to each charity.